Who is an American behavioral scientist known for operant conditioning and emphasizing positive reinforcement over punishment?

BF Skinner is an influential American behavioral scientist renowned for his work on operant conditioning, which is a method of learning that occurs through reinforcement or punishment. His research emphasized the importance of positive reinforcement, which involves providing a rewarding stimulus after a desired behavior is exhibited. This approach is aimed at increasing the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. Skinner's studies demonstrated that behavior could be shaped and maintained through carefully applied reinforcements, rather than relying on punitive measures, which can often lead to negative emotional responses and do not necessarily promote learning.

In contrast, Albert Bandura is best known for his social learning theory, which involves observational learning rather than operant conditioning. John Watson is credited with founding behaviorism and focused on observable behaviors but did not specifically emphasize operant conditioning. Erik Erikson is recognized for his stages of psychosocial development and does not focus primarily on behavioral aspects. Therefore, Skinner's contributions directly align with the concepts of operant conditioning and the significance of positive reinforcement in shaping behavior, making him the correct answer.